Angry Syrians hit the streets in protest over sharply rising fuel prices
Syrians took to the streets for a second day on Monday to demonstrate against a shock government decision to raise fuel prices. Angry crowds started fires and blocked major roads in protest. Cities and towns across northern Syria – Hama, Khan Sheikhoun and Maarat Al Numan, among others – have played host to some of the angriest protests against the move that was announced without warning…
Syrians rose up in protest on Monday, the second day of demonstrations, against the government's sudden decision to raise fuel prices. Angry crowds torched vehicles and obstructed major roads in northern cities like Hama, Khan Sheikhoun, and Maarat Al Numan. The abrupt announcement, made overnight on Saturday, left residents shocked, as it disproportionately affected the cost of living.
Idlib resident, speaking of the protests, said, "We went to sleep and woke up to this. It was a shock, because this is not just about fuel, it will affect the cost of living."
The government raised fuel prices up to 40% for diesel and 28% for petrol, citing a global surge in fuel costs due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, shipping routes, and heightened transportation and insurance costs following the US-Iran war. Despite being an oil and gas producer, Syria imports petroleum products due to reduced refining capacity at the Baniyas refinery during maintenance, combined with increased international prices for refined products, shipping, insurance, and supply.
About 90% of Syria's population lives below the poverty line, according to UN figures. The government claimed the temporary price hike was necessary to bridge the gap between the cost of securing petroleum products and their domestic selling prices. However, the protests underscore the severe economic hardship faced by Syrians, who are already struggling in the aftermath of a 14-year civil war.
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